The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has expressed significant concern over the rising instances of illegal dumping, emphasizing the urgent need for stricter penalties and enhanced enforcement measures to protect the environment. Permanent Secretary Dr. Sivendra Michael highlighted that this issue is being tackled in close collaboration with the Ministry of Local Government and local municipal councils.
Dr. Michael pointed out that a distressing feature of the problem is that some incidents involve companies that possess valid waste disposal permits but still engage in illegal dumping practices. “It is troubling that some companies with proper permits are not adhering to their responsibilities,” he stated, underscoring the accountability challenges faced by regulators and local authorities.
While enforcement actions are underway, Dr. Michael criticized existing penalties as insufficient. Currently, fines for violations range from $1,000 to $1,250, which he believes is not adequate. The ministry is currently considering amendments to regulations that would increase both the amount and types of fines imposed for breaches of permit conditions.
The environmental consequences of illegal dumping can be severe, particularly when it involves hazardous materials such as sewer or chemical waste. Dr. Michael characterized these actions as crimes against the environment that warrant serious consequences. “This should be treated as any other criminal offense, and we need to implement harsher fines to foster a culture of deterrence,” he asserted.
To bolster ground enforcement, the ministry has trained 326 Litter Prevention Officers (LPOs) and plans to expand this number to 500. However, Dr. Michael stressed that the quantity of officers is less important than equipping them with the necessary tools to perform their roles effectively. Each LPO is provided with a card, identification, and fine books to issue penalties on the spot.
Dr. Michael emphasized that enforcement actions apply uniformly to all individuals, stating that even he issues fines when witnessing violations while in his government vehicle. Empowering enforcement officers is crucial for the implementation of environmental laws, and the ministry is focused on providing ongoing training and resources to these officers.
Continued efforts include refresher training sessions and providing LPOs with useful tools, such as a compact handbook that outlines relevant legislation, ensuring that offenders clearly understand their violations when fined. These measures reflect a concerted push towards more stringent environmental protection, fostering a more responsible approach to waste management across communities.